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ORD → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is generally superior for this transatlantic route, offering the best chance to witness the Aurora Borealis over the North Atlantic, the rugged coastline of the Canadian Maritimes, and a more scenic entry over the Black Sea during the approach to Istanbul.
Search flights from ORD to IST
Newfoundland Coast
Rugged glacial landscapes and the dramatic coastline of eastern Canada.
Aurora Borealis
Possible views of the Northern Lights during winter overnight crossings.
North Sea Entry
The transition from the Atlantic Ocean into the European mainland airspace.
Danube River
A birds-eye view of the winding river through the heart of Eastern Europe.
Black Sea Coast
The final descent often provides sweeping views of the northern Turkish shoreline.
Choose the left side for overnight flights during solar activity periods for a chance at seeing the Aurora. On the approach into IST, the left side typically offers a clear view of the Black Sea and the northern suburban landscape of Istanbul. Ensure window alignment for the long haul.
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Chicago Skyline
Potential views of Lake Michigan and the skyscrapers of the Loop on takeoff.
Southern UK
Aerial perspective of the green patchwork fields and cliffs of southern England.
The Alps
Distant, majestic views of the snow-capped peaks in Central Europe.
Balkan Peninsula
The rugged, mountainous terrain of Serbia and Bulgaria.
Sea of Marmara
Views of the shipping lanes and the southern approach to the Bosphorus.
The right side is ideal for catching the sunrise as the plane travels eastward across Europe. If the flight path takes a more southerly route, the Alps will be visible from this side. On takeoff from ORD to the east, the right side provides the classic view of the Chicago lakefront.
Book Hotels in IstanbulDistance: 8,786 km (5,459 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 20 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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